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Adam Sandler DEJA RE-VU RECOMMENDED NEW CDS, DVDS AND BOOKS Al Franken By Paul Freeman Al Kooper Alan Alda DVDs Albert Hammond Alice Cooper Alvin Lee “THE ROAD TO FREEDOM” Andy Summers Ani DiFranco From the opening shots, this indie adventure-drama will keep you riveted. It’s based on the Arnold Schwarzenegger true story of Sean Flynn (Errol’s son), an acclaimed photojournalist who was captured and Art Clokey (creator of Gumby) vanished during the Vietnam War. Flynn had left the fantasy of an acting career to hurl Art Garfunkel himself into harsh reality, courageously shining a light on some of the world’s darker Arthur Lee- Love Ashford & Simpson corners. There’s a compelling immediacy achieved by first-time feature director Brendan B-52's Moriarty (remarkably only 19, when he made this film). His skill, as well as believable Badly Drawn Boy performances by Joshua Fredric Smith as Flynn and Scott Maguire as his friend and fellow Barbara Mandrell journalist, make the movie’s limited budget irrelevant. The war’s insanity and horror are Barry Mann Bay City Rollers clearly depicted. The film, shot on location in Cambodia, was recently accorded a limited Berlin theatrical release. Watch for its DVD release. It’s well worth discovering. Bert Jansch Betty Buckley “EMERSON LAKE & PALMER - 40TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION CONCERT” Bijou Phillips Bill Maher The prog-rock band truly helped Bill Medley Bill Monroe rock music to progress. Their Bill Wyman complex creations incorporated Billy Crystal classical and jazz elements. Their Billy Joel 40th anniversary concert proves Bjork that the music is just as relevant Blur Bob Geldof today. Overcoming age and health Bob Mould issues, the trio delivers a Brendan Fraser tremendously enjoyable set. The Brian Auger set is both nostalgic and timeless. Brian Regan Brubeck Brothers Bruce Hornsby “ROBERT PLANT’S BLUE NOTE” Bruce Willis Buck Owens This insightful documentary Buggy Guy contains lots of informative Butch Trucks interviews. It delves deeply into Buzzcocks Cameron Diaz Plant’s influences and inspirations, Carlene Carter covers his development as a Carlos Santana vocalist and most expansively, Carnie Wilson Carole King explores his post-Led Zep years. Potent performance clips are interspersed. The material Cate Blanchett Chevy Chase has been effectively assembled. It’s a must-have for Plant fans. Chicago China Forbes “HOUSE OF THE DAMNED” and “LUST FOR VENGEANCE” Chip Taylor Chris Farley MVD Entertainment Group recently released these two Sean Weathers cult horror classics. Chris Hillman The unnerving “Lust” was Weathers’ homage to Italy’s Giallo thrillers of the ‘60s - garish, Chris Isaak Grand Guignol affairs, splattering sex and gore all over the place. “Damned,” Weathers’ Chrissie Hynde Christian Slater 1996 directorial debut, filmed with an all-African-American cast, was inspired by the dark Christopher Eccleston comedy of “Return of the Living Dead” and the “Evil Dead” flicks. Christopher Reeve Cinematic Titanic “BOY WONDER” Coldplay Colin Blunstone After witnessing the brutal murder Collins Kids Concrete Blonde of his mother, a boy grows into a Corrs brilliant student by day, an Count V obsessed vigilante by night. The Cowboy Junkies indie psychological thriller is Cranberries Crystal Bernard directed to gripping perfection by Cybill Shepherd Michael Morrissey (who also Cyndi Lauper penned the thought-provoking Dan Aykroyd screenplay). The battle between Danny DeVito Dave Brubeck good and evil is shown to have Dave Clark complex shadings. The line Dave Davies between justice and vengeance Dave Mason can easily be blurred. The cast Dave Matthews Dave Mustane turns in spot-on, unwaveringly David Byrne convincing performances. Caleb David Cassidy Steinmeyer, as the angst-ridden, David Crosby 17-year-old avenger is riveting. David Gates The film, gritty, realistic and David Grey David LaFlamme disturbing, is indeed a wonder. David Lee Roth Dean Torrence “DAHLING: A TRIBUTE TO ZSA ZSA GABOR” Dean Torrence Debby Harry Due for release Dec. 7, this generous, low-priced package provides plenty of nostalgic fun. Def Leppard The Hungarian sex symbol, who reveled in celebrity and extravagance, can be seen Demi Moore Depeche Mode guesting on a 1950 “Milton Berle Show,” as well as in a 1956 episode of “G.E. Theatre.” Devo You’ll also be treated to a couple of her more obscure movies, 1971’s “Mooch Goes To Dick Clark Hollywood” and 1984’s “Frankenstein’s Great Aunt Tillie.” Trailers from other Gabor films Dick Dale are thrown in as a bonus treat. Dolly Parton Don Everly Doobie Brothers “THE LEGACY COLLECTION: KIRK DOUGLAS” Dudley Moore Duran Duran You get four discs filled with five Douglas films, via this new set, due Dec. 6. The feature Dwight Yoakum films are “The Strange Love of Martha Ivers,” “My Dear Secretary,” “The Big Trees,” “To Earl Klugh Catch A Spy” and “The Master Touch.” This spans the years 1948-1972. In addition, you Ed O'Neil get Douglas TV appearances on “The Colgate Comedy Hour” and “The Jack Benny Eddie Money Eddie Rabbitt Program.” As a bonus, original trailers from 32 of Kirk’s films and 27 of son MIchael’s are Elisabeth Shue also included. Ellen Greene Elvis Costello “MISS NOBODY” Emmylou Harris Engelbert In this dark, zany indie comedy, a drug company employee (Leslie Bibb) yearns to leap up Erasure Eric Andersen the corporate ladder. A homicidal streak helps her cause. In addition to Bibb, the Eric Burdon outstanding cast includes Kathy Baker, Adam Goldberg, Brandon Routh and Vivica A. Fox. Faith Hill The humor is consistently clever, with just the right measure of quirkiness. Despite the Fiona Apple slightly twisted subject matter, this offbeat film maintains an air of affability. Frank Black Fred Willard Frosted CDs Gary Lewis Gene Hackman “A SKAGGS FAMILY CHRISTMAS VOLUME TWO” Gene Simmons Geoffrey Rush Grace Slick Ricky Skaggs and his talented clan (including his wife’s family, The Whites) joyfully perform Graham Nash a variety of holiday tunes, from hymns to bluegrass, traditional and contemporary. There’s Graham Parker uplifting emotion aplenty, on both live and studio tracks. Lead vocals, harmonies and Green Day instrumentation are impeccable. A 26-song bonus DVD is included. Greg Kihn Gregory Hines Gruff Rhys LADYTRON - “GRAVITY THE SEDUCER” Gunnar Nelson Halle Berry Gorgeous electronic pop-rock. This melodic, harmony-laden outing recalls such artists as Harrison Ford ABBA, Brian Eno and , while forging its own path. Among the album’s highlights Harry Belafonte are the alluring “White Elephant” and the lush “90 Degrees.” Harvey Keitel Helena Bonham Carter PAUL SIMON - “SONGWRITER” Henry Rollins Herb Gardner Holly Hunter Simon himself selected the 32 memorable songs on this outstanding, two-disc compilation. Huey Lewis The stylistic diversity reminds listeners of his wide songwriting range. The selections are Hugh Grant primarily drawn from Simon’s solo years. The set’s previously unreleased track, a live Hyapatia Lee rendition of “Sounds of Silence,” is real treasure. Ian Hunter Ian Tyson Ileana Douglas THE ZOMBIES - “BREATHE OUT, BREATHE IN” Jack Bruce Jack Jones You don’t have to be a British Jack Palance Invasion buff to be blown away by Jamie Bernstein The Zombies’ new “Breathe Out, Jane Siberry Jane Weidlin Breathe In” album. They continue Janeane Garafalo to fashion music that’s fresh, Janis Ian imaginative, timeless. Their Jeff Buckley harmonies are heavenly. The Jeff Lynne arrangements are inventive and Jen & Buns Jennifer Batten complement the seductive Jennifer Connelly melodies. Rod Argent’s keyboard Jeremy Northam wizardry helps form a throbbing Jerry Naylor foundation. And Colin Blunstone Jesse Colin Young Jesus & Mary Chain remains one of the most Jewel captivating voices in rock history. Jim Belushi Jim Carrey All 10 track make indelible Jim McCarty impressions. The title tune is a Joan Baez wonderfully catchy, breezy, jazz- Jody Stephens (Big Star) infused winner. Other high points Joe Ely Joe Jackson include the plaintive “Any Other Joel McHale Way,” the beautiful “I Do Believe” and the undulating, urgent, “Show Me The Way,” which Joh Hiatt has a dynamic Blunstone vocal and a very cool Argent break. This album will thrill Zombies John Cryer fans old and new. John Denver John Doe GEORGE BENSON - “GUITAR MAN” John Gorka John Hughes John Lydon Benson’s magic fingers put their fluid imprint on songs ranging from Great American John Mayall Songbook to Beatles to Stevie Wonder to a fun, jazzy “Tequila.” A subtly reflective version John Mellencamp of Norah Jones’ hit “Don’t Know Why” is a standout. When Benson vocalizes, the results are John Paul Jones as smooth and pleasing as his guitar work. John Sebastian Johnny Depp Johnny Winter KEITH LOWELL JENSEN - “CATS MADE OF RABBITS” Jon Bon Jovi Jon Favreau Known as “The Atheist Comedian,” the consistently politically incorrect Jensen jokes about Jorma Kaukaunen a wild array of topics, lingering on religion and sex. Fortunately, he’s as genuinely funny as Josie Bisset of Melrose Place he is outrageously scatological. Journey Judy Collins Julia Fordham ELVIS PRESLEY - “YOUNG MAN WITH THE BIG BEAT” Julian Lennon Juliette Lewis Wow! - That’s how fans of the King will react to this spectacular five-disc box set, Katey Sagal celebrating the 1956 Elvis explosion. Just for starters, you get the complete 1956 masters. Kathleen Turner Electrifying, previously unreleased Louisiana and Arkansas ‘56 concerts follow, along with Katie Melua rare Vegas recordings from that landmark year. Spoken word recordings, including Elvis Keanu Reeves Keifer Sutherland and Colonel Tom Parker interviews, are equally fascinating. But it’s the raucous music that Kenny Laguna clearly shows how Elvis lit the fuse to the rock ‘n’ roll revolution. An 80-page hardbound Kim Basinger book brims with not only great pics, but also such memorabilia as ticket stubs, record Kim Gordon company memos and industry charts. Another terrific package from Sony Legacy. Kris Kristofferson Larry King Laurence Juber UMPHREY’S MCGEE - “DEATH BY STEREO” Lemmy (Motorhead) Lenny Kravitz Their sixth studio album displays the prog jam band’s sometimes under-appreciated Les Claypool songwiting skills. They organically fly from style to style, funk grooves to indie rock to Lesley Gore mellower material. It all works... and works well. Leslie Mann Linda Ronstadt Lisa Loeb JUNE & JEAN MILLINGTON - “PLAY LIKE A GIRL” Lita Ford Loudon Wainwright The Millington sisters, co-founders of the pioneering ‘70s all-female band, Fanny, return Louis Malle with their first album in a decade. And they still can totally rock! Among the sizzlers are Lucinda Williams “Play Like A Girl” and “Apocalypse Deferred.” But there’s so much more. “Opportunity Luke Perry Knocks” bounces along with a funkified, soulful feel. A lovely change of pace comes with Lydia Pense Maria McKee the ballad “Calling Your Name (To The Stars). “Fall On You” is a bluesy beauty. This album Maria Muldaur pleases from start to finish. The Millingtons have paved the way for countless women and Marianne Faithful continue to do so, through their dynamic tunes, as well as their work with IMA’s Rock ‘n’ Marlo Thomas Roll Girls Camps. Martin Mull Marty Balin Mary Wells WILLIAM CARN - “RUN STOP RUN” Matt Dillon Max Weinberg Carn, the Canadian, Juno-nominated trombonist/vocalist/composer combines radiant, Mel C flowing melodies with infectious grooves on this impressive album. With imaginative Mel Torme production by saxophonist/composer David Binney and support from a top-notch combo, Melissa Manchester Michael Biehn Carn creates a multitude of moods. One of the most moving tracks is titled “His Eyes Are Michael Hutchence Sad and Knowing.” Michael J. Fox Michael Nesmith JOHN SCOFIELD - “A MOMENT’S PEACE” Midnight Oil Mike Myers On the guitar great’s lovely, laid-back new album, Scofield and an intimate-sounding, all- Mike Smith star band sensitively interpret songs made famous by such artists as Billie Holiday, Abbey Milla Jovavich Minnie Driver Lincoln, Nina Simone and John Coltrane. Five new original Scofield compositions blend in Miranda Richarson beautifully. It’s all about emotion and nuance here. Play this album and you’ll immediately Moby establish a mellow ambiance, wherever you are. Molly Ringwald Muse DEBORAH WINTERS - “LOVERS AFTER ALL” Nancy Griffith Nancy Sinatra Nancy Wilson If you love the Great American Songbook delivered in silky, seductive style, you’ll definitely Natasha Bettingfield love the Bay Area’s Deborah Winters. On her latest album, Winters serves up scintillating Nelson versions of the gently swinging “Body and Soul” and “The End of a Love Affair,” as well as Nick Lowe the exquisite title track. “For All We Know” will tear at your heartstrings. As a vocalist, Ms. Nick Nolte Nicole Kidman Winters is both elegant and eloquent. Nikka Costa Nikki Sixx THE LANDRUS KALEIDOSCOPE - “CAPSULE” Nina Gordon Oliver Stone Brian Landrus’ expressive performances on bass flute, bass clarinet and, especially, Olivia Newton-John Ossie Davis baritone sax, help make this jazz journey exciting and eclectic. He and his five-piece group Ozzy Osbourne adeptly mix electric and acoustic instruments. Unexpected sounds abound. Embark on this Patty Smythe musical adventure. Paul Kantner Paul Michael Glaser JOSH NELSON - “DISCOVERIES” Paul Westerberg Paul Williams Paula Cole The L.A.-based pianist/composer and his octet nod to both the past and the future, as they Paula Poundstone pay musical homage to the fantastical worlds of Jules Verne and H.G. Welles. Nelson’s Peggy Lee compositional explorations are consistently arresting and invite repeated immersions. Pegi Young There’s a very distinctive charm and sense of wonder at play here. Penelope Houston Penny Marshall “THE ESSENTIAL PHIL SPECTOR” Perry Ferrell Peter Fonda Peter Gallagher This two-disc set shows once Peter Noone again why Spector is such an Peter Tork essential part of rock’s foundation. Peter Wolf Every one of the 34 tracks here is Petula Clark Phil Lesh/Rick James a classic. It takes the listener from Phish the perfect simplicity of songs like Phyllis Diller “Corrine, Corrina” and “I Love How Pierce Brosnan You Love Me” to Spector’s girl Piper Laurie Polly Parsons group wonderments with artists REM like The Crystals, Darlene Love REO Speedwagon and The Ronettes through his Radiohead majestic singles with The Ramblin' Jack Elliott Righteous Brothers and his Randy Bachman Randy Newman masterpiece, “River Deep, Randy Travis Mountain High,” by Ike & Tina Ray Bradbury Turner. You can hear the Ray Liotta producer’s best work thousands of Ray Manzarek Richard Carpenter times and still get chills up your Richard Dreyfus spine. Richard Lewis Richard Thompson ELIZABETH LOHNINGER BAND - “CHRISTMAS IN JULY” Richie Sambora Rick Springfield The vibrant, velvety vocalist teams with Austrian-born pianist Walter Fischbacher and Ricky Skaggs Robbie Krieger guitarist Axel Fischbacher to gather a gorgeous collection of holiday songs from around the Robert Klein globe. Singing in nine languages, Lohninger and company create at least as many moods, Robert Schimmel from poignant to joyous to reflective to fun to exhilarating. This is an unusual Christmas Robin Williams album, unusually fresh-sounding. It’s filled with surprises and delights. Robyn Hitchcock Rod Argent VARIOUS ARTISTS - “SONGS FOR THE JEWISH-AMERICAN JET SET” Rodney Crowell Roger McGuinn Ron Sexsmith Searching for the perfect Hanukkah gift? Tika Records has provided the answer. This Roseanne Cash collection travels through the years 1950 through 1973 and spans a wide variety of gems Roy Orbison The Sabras’ “Ho Yaldonet” features ‘60s reverb-laden, twangy electric guitars and vocal Rufus Wainwright typical of the era’s garage rock. From an earlier time come Leo Fuld (“The Yiddish Fred Sam Elliott Sam Neill Astaire) and his classic “Mazzel,” as well as the amusing “Shalom, Pardner” from “The Sammy Cahn Jewish Cowboy,” Leo Fuchs. Fuchs also romps his way through “The Jewish Twist.” This Sammy Davis package is a fun and historical cultural trip. Sarah Brightman Sarah Jessica Parker CAMILLE BLOOM - “NEVER OUT OF TIME” Sarah McLachlan Scotty Moore (Elvis' original guitarist) Seal The Seattle singer-songwriter deserves far more attention. And her latest album should Sean Connery help her attain it. Each song carves out its own distinctive identity. A skilled storyeller, Sean Lennon Bloom can etch indelible character portraits, as on “Lake Chelan.” But she also has a sense Shari Lewis of whimsy, as evidenced by the hip-hop bonus track “Teeny Car.” She easily wends her Shawn Colvin way through folk, pop and rock flavors, as well as from the dramatic to the fun. Her strong, Sheena Eastman Shelby Lynne sure voice ties it all together. Among the top tunes are “Tonight,” “Top of My Game,” “I Shelley Long Know You Know” and “All of These Stains.” Sinead O'Connor Social Distortion JOSS STONE - “LP1” Soul Asylum Stallone Stone’s fifth album, which she’s Stan Freberg Steely Dan titled “LP1,” is her first on her own Stephen Stills label. And it exudes the sort of joy Stereolab that comes from liberation. Steve Earle There’s more of a rock/funk drive Steven Seagal Steven Tyler than her previous releases Super Furry Animals demonstrated. Her vocals are Susanna Hoffs heartfelt and powerful, whether Suzanne Vega electric guitars and keyboards Tanya Donnelly Temptations swirl behind her or it’s just a Temptations simple acoustic guitar. Stone has Terry Gilliam The Donnas embarked on an exciting new The Jayhawks chapter. The Knack The Motels THE PERSUASIONS & FRIENDS - The Turtles “PERSUASIONS OF THE DEAD” The Who-John Entwhistle Thomas Haden Church Tim Burton This remixed, expanded two-disc Tim Robbins set of The Persuasions’ long-out-of Timothy Dalton print Grateful Dead tribute is well Todd Rundgren worth rediscovering. There’s a celebratory feel throughout these tracks, marked by soul- Tom Hanks stirring vocals. Guests include Dead keyboardist Vince Welnick, Peter Rowan, Country Joe Tom Jones Tom Smothers McDonald and Gloria Jones of The Jerry Garcia Band Tommy Davidson Tommy James VARIOUS ARTISTS - “NOTE OF HOPE: A CELEBRATION OF WOODY GUTHRIE” Tommy Roe Tori Amos Marking Woody’s upcoming 100th birthday, this album, co-produced by his daughter Nora, Tower of Power includes unpublished lyrics set to new music penned by Lou Reed, Van Dyke Parks, Jackson Trisha Yearwood Vanessa Carlton Browne and Ani Di Franco. Rob Wasserman provides music to complement Woody’s prose Vince Neil pieces. Also featured are Pete Seeger with Tony Trischka, Chris Whitley, Studs Terkel, War Nellie McKay, Tom Morello and Madeline Peyroux. With Guthrie’s penetrating, populist Warren Haynes messages as relevant as ever, this release should introduce him to a new generation. Waylon Jennings Wendy and Bonnie Willem Dafoe UH HUH HER - “NOCTURNES” Willie Nelson Wink Martindale The electro-pop-rock-dance duo returns with a captivating new album, a bit darker in tone Yardbirds than previous works. But Camila Grey and Leisha Hailey still have irresistible hooks threading through their infectious songs. Grey co-produced with Wendy Melvoin (Wendy & Lisa).

VARIOUS ARTISTS - “THE LOST NOTEBOOK OF HANK WILLIAMS”

The king of country loneliness, Williams died at age 29, but his music lives forever. This album unearths draws upon lyrics found in his notebook. Many fine singer-songwriters have set the master’s words to music and the results include many true gems, including Lucinda Williams’ “Im So Happy I Found You” and Vince Gill & Rodney Crowell on “I Hope You Shed A Million Tears.” Others contributing are Alan Jackson, Bob Dylan, Norah Jones, Jack White, Patty Loveless, Holly Williams, Jakob Dylan, Sheryl Crow and Merle Haggard.

PATTI SMITH - “OUTSIDE SOCIETY”

The 18 tracks here serve as a perfect primer on one of rock’s most important maverick artists. On these assembled tracks, Smith puts her own imprint on covers like “Gloria,” “So You Want To Be A Rock ‘n’ Roll Star” and “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” Her own enduring compositions, such as “Dancing Barefoot” and “People Have The Power” are also here, as is, of course, ”Because The Night,” her highly appealing songwriting collaboration with Bruce Springsteen. Greatest Hits albums don’t get much better than this.

COWBOY JUNKIES - “SING IN MY MEADOW”

The third in the band’s “Nomad Sessions”(the earlier ones were the Asian-flavored Remnin Park and the Vic Chestnutt tribute “Demons”), this one was recorded in four days and establishes a late night, raw, bluesy, moody rock feel. Margo Timmins’ vocals are again marvelously melancholy, the guitar is edgy and reverb- drenched. The psychedelic, early ’70s vibe of “I Move On” is one of the key cuts, as is the haunting “Late Night Radio.”

JOHN DOE - “KEEPER”

The father of L.A.’s seminal punk rock band X returns with a terrific set, encompassing rootsy rockers and gentler Americana tunes. Doe is a literate lyricist and a polished melody maker. There are more upbeat sentiments here than you might usually associate with him, a little bit less anger and darkness. But Doe sounds utterly genuine in whatever he expresses.

TONY BENNETT - “THE CLASSIC CHRISTMAS ALBUM” If you want to swing your way into the holidays, no better way than this. Bennett has chosen 17 of his catalogue treasures, as well as the previously unreleased “What Child Is This.” Among the joys are “Silver Bells,” “WInter Wonderful” and “The Christmas Song.” Bennett works his magic with all of the standards here, whether in orchestral, big band or small combo arrangements.

THE TIERNEY SUTTON BAND - “AMERICAN ROAD”

Sutton’s sublime voice brings emotional resonance to this album filled with American classics. Honoring an array of genres, she and her excellent band interpret such diverse tunes as “Wayfaring Stranger,” “On Broadway,” “Tenderly,” “Somewhere” and “America The Beautiful.” This album dazzles, rich in truly moving moments.

MILES DAVIS QUINTET - “LIVE IN EUROPE 1967: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL. 1”

From Columbia/Legacy comes this outstanding collection, which demonstrates the inspired inventiveness of this particular Davis group, which featured saxophonist Wayner Shorter, pianist Herbie Hancock, bassist Ron Carter and drummer Tony Williams. It includes three CDs with live performances from Antwerp, Copenhagen and Paris, as well as a DVD with sets from Germany and Sweden.

THE DAVE BRUBECK QUARTET - “LAST TIME OUT: DECEMBER 26, 1967”

This must-have, two-CD set documents the last concert by the group comprised of Brubeck, alto saxophonist Paul Desmond, drummer Joe Morello and bassist Eugene Wright. This was undeniably one of the coolest, and most influential bands in jazz history. The performances here will make you want to seek out the rest of their creative output.

SHELBY LYNNE - “REVELATION ROAD”

The uplifting title track opens the album, setting the bar high. Lynne doesn’t disappoint, with her revealing songwriting and expressive vocals. “Heaven’s Only Days Down The Road” is a gripping account of her family’s tragedy. These deeply personal songs strike universal emotional chords.

THE ORIGINAL 7VEN - “CONDENSATE”

Original 7Ven is the band formerly known as The Time, featuring vocalist Morris Day. Because Prince owns the rights to the name, the group reunited using a new monicker, but they still have the hard-to-resist mix of funk, rock and soul. These numbers will wow older Time travelers and attract new fans.

THE McCRARY SISTERS - “OUR JOURNEY”

The daughters of Fairfield Flour singer Reverend Samuel McCrary, this quartet has sung with such artists as Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan and The Winans. Their glorious harmonies rouse the spirit with such tunes as “Know My Name,” “Dig A Little Deeper” and “Shine A Light.” They bring their own special power to Dylan’s “Blowin’ In The Wind.

NICK LOWE - “THE OLD MAGIC”

From Brinsley Schwarz to Rockpile to his production work with Elvis Costello to his solo albums, Lowe has been responsible for a lot of incredible music. This sophisticated new pop-country set includes covers of Elvis Costello and Tom T. Hall tunes, as well as finely crafted Lowe originals. His vocals convey a wistfulness and yearning. Lowe is definitely aging gracefully.

BILL FRISELL - “ALL WE ARE SAYING”

It’s fascinating to hear the great guitarist/bandleader sensitively offering instrumental interpretations of John Lennon’s songs. The ballads, such as “Imagine” and “Julia” are particularly affecting.

BEN FOLDS - “THE BEST IMITATION OF MYSELF: A RETROSPECTIVE”

The alt pop-rock singer-songwriter gets the box set treatment with this three-disc anthology. His songs are catchy, quirky, often peevish and always witty. His compositions can be insightful or topical, but at least as importantly, they’re imaginatively melodic. The package gives you hits, live performances and studio rarities. What more could you ask?

MIGUEL ZENON QUARTET - “ALMA ADENTRO: THE PUERTO RICAN SONGBOOK”

On his new CD, the jazz saxophonist pays tribute to five of the most important Puerto Rican songwriters, interpreting 10 of their songs. Experience the smooth, elegant style of Zenon’s music.

KENNY WAYNE - “AN OLD ROCK ON A ROLL” Get to know the “Blues Boss.” Wayne displays a mastery of blues and boogie 88’s. Raised in New Orleans, the former Bay Area resident now lives in Vancouver. His new album, “An Old Rock on a Roll,” was produced by Duke Robillard.

RADIATION CITY - “THE HANDS THAT TAKE YOU”

Portland’s indie-rock favorites are definitely worth a listen. They have a ‘60s sensibility enhanced by an ultra-modern bite. On their MySpace page, hear “The Color of Industry” from the band’s new album. www.myspace.com/radiationcity

GARY NUMAN - “DEAD SON RISING”

Numan, a pioneering force who infused electronic music with a fiery punk energy, was at the dark edge of the New Wave. He has just released a potent new album, “,” that ranges from mesmerizingly atmospheric to intensely rocking. There’s a killer version of “Get Rhythm” from ‘56 and a cool cover of Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice,” recorded at the Newport Folk Festival. On his site, you can check out three of the numbers, the title track, “The Fall” and “.” His sounds continue to be diverse and dynamic. www.numan.co.uk

DAISY MCCRACKIN - “GOD WILLING”

Want to hear some crackin’ good songs? Discover Los Angeles-based alt-folk artist Daisy McCrackin. Recorded with a gentle sparseness, giving the tunes room to resonate, her songs display a haunting loveliness. Two of the beauties are “I Think I’m A Ghost” and “The Moon.”

JOHNNY CASH - BOOTLEG VOL. 3 - LIVE AROUND THE WORLD”

Two discs packed with gritty, great Johnny Cash live rarities. There are 53 tracks on two discs. One of the highlights is his defiant performance of “What Is Truth” in front of a miffed Richard Nixon at the White House. No true Cash fan can live without this new package. And that’s the truth!

BOOKS

“UNFINISHED” BY SUZANNE GRAVELLE

This is an inspiring, thoroughly engrossing story of a journey, emotional, as well as geographical. Dealing with transitions and traumas, Gravelle travels across Canada and finds a great deal in the process, including a new sense of self. This is a remarkably unguarded and relatable tale. Gravelle examines her own shifting thoughts and feelings with a candor and awareness that will keep readers enthralled.

“THE ARMAGEDDON CHORD” BY JEREMY WAGNER

Metal and horror combine again to explosively dramatic effect in this new novel. Author Wagner knows the metal genre well, having written lyrics and played guitar with the bands Broken Hope and Lupara. He also knows how to craft a gripping, pulse-quickening thriller. The premise is that, in ancient days, Satan composed music that would one day plunge the world into a hellish nightmare. And, thanks to the manipulations of a soulless billionaire and a damaged Egyptologist, a modern metal guitar god is about to unleash the fury. Colorful characters, over-the-top violence and brisk pacing make this a darkly entertaining read.

“LIVING ROOM LEGENDS: CHATS WITH TV’s FAMOUS FACES” BY EDDIE LUCAS

Lucas interviews some of television’s most cherished figures with the perspective of an appreciative, extremely knowledgeable fan. This makes for an unpretentious, warmly fun and nostalgic journey. You’ll gain insights into many of your favorite TV classics as he coaxes little known anecdotes from Donna Douglas (“Beverly Hillbillies”), Jim Nabors (“The Andy Griffith Show”), Pat Carroll (“The Danny Thomas Show”), Rose Marie (“The Dick Van Dyke Show”), Ronnie Schell (“Gomer Pyle”), Lucie Arnaz (“Here’s Lucy”), Janet Waldo (“The Jetsons”), Pat Priest (“The Munsters”) and others. After reading this collection, you’ll run to re-watch the discussed episodes.

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